Beijing on Thursday vowed to take "necessary" measures in the South China Sea to defend China's legitimate rights and interests if the Philippines continues "provocative acts" in the area.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin urged the country to return to the right track of settling maritime disputes through negotiation and consultation as soon as possible.

Wang made the remarks at Thursday's daily press briefing after the Philippine authorities ordered a probe into "illegal and unlawful activities committed by foreign diplomats," reportedly regarding a recording and transcript released by the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines last week on Ren'ai Jiao.

"We once again advise the Philippine side to face up to the facts, honor its commitments," Wang said.

He emphasized that whether it's the agreements reached between China and the Philippines or the timeline of events, the evidence is clear and indisputable.

Wang also highlighted China's commitment to maintaining communication and cooperation with Association of Southeast Asian Nations countries, including the Philippines, and emphasized the importance of upholding agreements such as the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.

(Cover: Chinese Foreign Ministry. /CGTN)